The COVID-19 pandemic wasn't the first emergency that PTs and PTAs have responded to, and it won't be the last. And it's highly likely the next one will present different challenges. That's what makes Pete Skelton's message so crucial.

Coming March 26-27: "Rehabilitation in Emergencies," a multipart presentation from Skelton, PT, MSc, that takes a deep dive into how different emergencies create distinctive rehab needs and lays out the steps needed to develop an "all hazard" rehab preparedness plan. The event is the first in the APTA Centennial Lecture Series. Registrations are still open for the event.

Skelton is a recognized expert in emergency preparedness and response who has been involved in emergency responses to earthquakes, cyclones, conflicts, displacements, and outbreaks. He currently serves as Rehabilitation in Emergencies focal point for the World Health Organization, and he has been a rehabilitation advisor to several international nongovernmental organizations. Before his work with WHO, Skelton was rehab lead of the UK Emergency Medical Team.

The lecture will be delivered virtually in five installments: 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.- – 4:30 p.m. March 26; and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1 p.m-2:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. March 27. All times are ET. Attendees can earn 0.8 CEUs from the event by attending all five sessions live.

The APTA Centennial Lecture Series showcases physical therapy thought leaders on some of the profession's hottest issues. Upcoming lectures will focus on topics ranging from pain management to Medicare and Medicaid compliance, and will include explorations of specific conditions and patient types such as vestibular disorders and treatment of runners. Lectures will be offered monthly through October.

(Want to prep for Skelton's lecture? Check out the APTA article "6 Resources on Prepping for and Responding to Emergencies and Disasters," part of the suite of resources available on the APTA Emergency Preparedness webpage.)